Governor of Mississippi

The governor of Mississippi is the head of state and head of government of Mississippi and the commander-in-chief of the state's military forces. The governor has a duty to enforce state laws, and the power to either approve or veto bills passed by the Mississippi Legislature, to convene the legislature at any time, and, except in cases of treason or impeachment, to grant pardons and reprieves. History of the office Upon its creation in 1798, the Mississippi Territory was given a government which included a governor. Mississippi was given statehood in 1817. Its first constitution provided for a weak governor with limited appointive powers and limited to serving a two-year term. The term was extended to four years in the 1869 constitution. In 1918, legislation was passed enabling the governor to submit budget proposals to the legislature. In 1986, voters approved an amendment to the constitution permitting the governor to seek election to a consecutive term. Election Any potential candidate for governor must be at least 30 years of age and have been a citizen of the United States for at least 20 years and a resident of Mississippi for at least five years preceding election. They serve for a four-year term and are limited to serving two consecutive terms in office. Powers and duties